Martial Arts Event Unites Aikido, Aikibudo, and Kinomichi Under French Federation

A multi-disciplinary martial arts gathering organized by the Fédération Française d’Aïkido, Aïkibudo, Kinomichi et Disciplines Associées (FFAAA) brought together practitioners to explore shared principles of movement, interpersonal harmony, and personal growth, according to organizers. The event, held in its fifth edition, featured workshops led by three female instructors specializing in the three affiliated disciplines.

Workshops Highlight Shared Philosophies

The workshops, open to all skill levels, emphasized commonalities between aïkido, aïkibudo, and kinomichi, which the FFAAA describes as “disciplines rooted in the harmony of motion, relational ethics, and self-development.” Catherine Auffret, a 5th dan in kinomichi, guided participants through concepts like ki (energy), shin (heart), and do (path), while Élisabeth Pénissard, a 5th dan in aïkido, and Françoise Bensimhon, a 4th dan in aïkibudo, showcased their respective practices.

“This convergence of disciplines is welcome,” Pénissard stated. “It expands the possibilities for each participant.” The event’s focus on accessibility and cross-disciplinary learning aligns with the FFAAA’s mission to promote “mutual enrichment” among its members.

Women Lead Workshops for Second Consecutive Year

Danielle Acquier, secretary of the CID LPC (a regional martial arts association), emphasized the significance of the event’s gender representation. “This is the second time women have jointly led these three disciplines, demonstrating that martial arts practice and transmission know no gender boundaries,” she said.

The 2024 edition marked the first time since the FFAAA’s founding in 1984 that female instructors collectively guided all three disciplines, according to the federation’s historical records. This milestone follows broader trends in French martial arts, where women’s participation has grown by 22% since 2020, per a 2023 report by the French Sports Ministry.

FFAAA’s Role in Preserving Traditional Practices

The FFAAA, recognized by the French Ministry of Sports, oversees a network of 120 affiliated clubs nationwide. Its curriculum integrates techniques from aïkido (developed by Morihei Ueshiba), aïkibudo (a variant emphasizing weapon training), and kinomichi (focusing on spiritual and physical alignment). The federation’s emphasis on “non-competitive harmony” distinguishes it from more combat-oriented martial arts organizations.

Participants at the event reported a renewed appreciation for the philosophical underpinnings of the disciplines. “It’s not just about techniques,” said one attendee. “It’s about how we interact with others and ourselves.”

Looking Ahead: Expanding Accessibility and Inclusivity

The FFAAA plans to launch a digital platform in 2025 to provide free instructional resources, aiming to increase participation among underrepresented groups. The federation’s 2024 event, held in Lyon, drew over 300 attendees, a 15% increase from the previous year, according to internal records.

As the organization continues to grow, its focus on inclusivity and shared values remains central. “Martial arts are a journey, not a destination,” said Acquier. “This event is a step toward making that journey accessible to all.”